Economics · XEC11 / YEC11

How International A level Economics works

Start here: the units, their exam codes and when you can sit them for Pearson Edexcel International AS and A level Economics.

Two qualifications in one course

International A level Economics is modular: you sit it unit by unit.

The International AS (cash-in code XEC11) is Unit 1, Unit 2. It is a qualification on its own.
The full International A level (cash-in code YEC11) is all 4 units: the AS units plus Unit 3, Unit 4.

You can bank AS results in Year 12 and add the A2 units in Year 13.

The units

Each unit has its own exam code. These are the codes your exams officer uses to enter you.

Unit	Code	Title	Level	Exam series 2026/27
Unit 1	WEC11	Markets in action	AS	October, January and June
Unit 2	WEC12	Macroeconomic performance and policy	AS	October, January and June
Unit 3	WEC13	Business behaviour	A2	October, January and June
Unit 4	WEC14	Developments in the Global Economy	A2	October, January and June

Source: Pearson Information Manual 2026/2027, International A level

When you can sit them

Pearson runs International A level exams in January, May to June and October, but not every unit is offered in every series. Plan your units with your teacher, and always confirm entries with your exams officer: Pearson updates the manual every year.

Worked example

You finish Year 12 having sat the AS units in Economics. What can you claim?

The AS units are Unit 1, Unit 2.
Together they give the International AS (XEC11).

Answer: The International AS in Economics (XEC11); add the A2 units in Year 13 for the full A level (YEC11).

Key idea: International AS Economics = Unit 1, Unit 2 (XEC11). Full International A level = all 4 units (YEC11). Not every unit is offered in October.

Check yourself

What is the cash-in code for the full International A level in Economics?
- XEC11
- ZEC11
- WEC11
- YEC11
Show answer
YEC11. YEC11 is the full International A level; XEC11 is the International AS.
Which code is the International AS in Economics?
- YEC11
- XEC11
- WEC11
- QEC11
Show answer
XEC11. XEC11 is the International AS cash-in code.
How many units make up the full International A level in Economics?
Show answer
4. The full A level is 4 units: Unit 1, Unit 2, Unit 3, Unit 4.
In 2026/27, in which exam series can you sit Economics Unit 1 (Markets in action)?
- October, January and June
- January and June only
- June only
- January only
Show answer
October, January and June. Pearson's 2026/27 manual lists Unit 1 as available in: October, January and June.
Which Economics unit has the code WEC12?
- Unit 1
- Unit 3
- Unit 2
- Unit 4
Show answer
Unit 2. WEC12 is Unit 2: Macroeconomic performance and policy.

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Sources

Last updated 7 November 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email alevel@lifereadysociety.com.